Does Everyone Get Cataracts? Signs, Causes, And Solution

Cataracts are a common problem with the eyes that many people experience as they get older. But does everyone get cataracts?

In this article, we will look at what cataracts are, how they happen, who is at risk, and how they are treated. We will also talk about how cataracts are diagnosed and what you can do to protect your eyes.

What Are Cataracts?

A cataract is the cloudiness that happens in the lens inside your eye. This makes your vision blurry or foggy, making it harder to see clearly. The lens of your eye is supposed to be clear so that light can go through and help you see things well. Seeing things like you used to can be harder when a cataract forms.

Cataract Risk Factors

Most cataracts happen because of ageing. As we get older, the proteins in the eye break down and clump together, causing the lens to become clouded. Cataracts can also form because of other things, like injuries to the eye, medical problems, or other reasons.

Does Everyone Get Cataracts?

Cataracts are most common as people get older, but not everyone will get them. Some people may never have cataracts, while others might develop them sooner. The older you get, the more likely you are to develop cataracts, but it doesn’t happen to everyone at the same age.

Cataract Formation In Younger People

Most people get cataracts when they are older, but it is possible for younger people to develop cataracts, too.

This can happen because of things like eye injuries or medical conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Some people are also born with cataracts, which are called congenital cataracts.

The Role Of Family History

If a person has family members who have had cataracts, they might be more likely to get them, too. Genetics can affect whether cataracts develop earlier or are more severe.

Long-Term Use Of Medicine

Some medicines, especially steroids, can increase the chances of cataract development. These medicines are used to treat different health problems, but they can also affect your natural lens over time.

Smoking And Drinking Alcohol

Smoking and consuming too much alcohol can increase your chances of getting cataracts. These habits can damage your eyes and make cataracts develop faster.

Sunlight

Too much sunlight can damage your eyes and increase your risk of cataracts. To protect your eyes from the sun, it is important to wear sunglasses.

Symptoms Of Cataracts

Cataracts usually develop gradually, so you may not notice any changes at first. But as cataracts grow, they can cause problems with your vision. It is important to notice the signs early so you can get help before the problem gets worse.

Blurry Vision

It’s possible that cataracts are causing blurred vision. This means things may look unclear or fuzzy, and it might be harder to see details clearly, especially in dim light or at night.

Sensitivity To Light

Cataracts can also make you more sensitive to light. This means bright lights can feel too bright, and you may see glare, especially when driving at night.

Double Vision

Sometimes, cataracts cause double vision, where you see two images of one thing. This can make it hard to focus on things, especially when they are close to you.

Difficulty With Everyday Activities

As cataracts worsen, reading, using a computer, and watching TV can become more difficult. You may need more light to see clearly, or your vision may not be as sharp as before.

Trouble Seeing Up Close

Cataracts can make it hard to see things up close, like reading a book or looking at a phone. If this happens, it may be a sign that you have cataracts.

Diagnosing Cataracts

If you think you have cataracts, it is important to visit an eye doctor. They can check your eyes to see if you have cataracts and figure out the best way to help you. Cataracts are usually found during a regular eye check-up.

Dilated Eye Exam

To check for cataracts, your eye doctor will likely give you eye drops to make your pupils bigger. This is called a dilated eye exam. It helps the doctor see the lens of your eyes more clearly to check if it is cloudy.

Specific Tests

The doctor might also do other tests to check how well you can see and look for other eye problems. These tests help the doctor understand how bad your cataracts are and decide what kind of treatment you might need.

Cataract Surgery

The only way to treat cataracts is surgery. This simple procedure removes the clouded lens and replaces it with a clear intraocular lens. It is very common and has a high success rate. After the surgery, you should feel better and notice an improvement in your vision.

Types Of Lenses For Cataract Surgery

Different types of lenses can be used in cataract surgery. Some lenses can help you see close-up and far away, while others are more accommodative. Your eye doctor will talk to you about the best type of artificial lens for your needs.

Recovery After Cataract Surgery

After cataract surgery, you will be able to see better within a few days or weeks. You may need to use eye drops for a while to help your eyes heal. Your doctor will give you instructions to make sure you care for your eyes during recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cataracts be prevented?

Cataracts can’t be completely prevented, but you can reduce your risk by protecting your eyes from the sun, eating healthy foods, and getting regular eye exams.

How long does cataract surgery take?

Cataract surgery is quick and usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You can go home the same day after the surgery.

Is cataract surgery painful?

Cataract surgery is not that painful. Numbing eye drops are used, and you may only feel mild pressure or discomfort during the procedure.

Conclusion

Cataracts are a common problem, especially as we age. While most people will develop them over time, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and protect your eyes. If you notice changes in your vision, visit an eye doctor for a thorough exam.

Cataract surgery is a great way to restore clear vision, so make the most of it to enjoy your eye health. Taking care of your eyes today can help you see better tomorrow.

Are you noticing blurry vision or changes in how you see? Book an eye exam with our friendly team in Melbourne to check your vision and find the best solution for you.

Call Mornington Peninsula Eye Clinic at (03) 9070 3580. We’re ready to help you see better and feel confident every day.

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Sources

Gurarie M 2023. What Are Cataracts? Health. Available at: https://www.health.com/cataracts-overview-7376241 [Accessed January 10, 2025]

Mintz J 2022. How to Diagnose and Treat Cataracts. WebMD. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/cataracts/diagnose-treat-cataracts [Accessed January 10, 2025]

Sherrell Z 2023. What Foods Should You Avoid After Cataract Surgery? Medical News Today. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/food-not-to-eat-after-cataract-surgery [Accessed January 10, 2025]